On dual-energy X-ray absorbtiometry use in patients with metabolic syndrome and associated fatty liver disease

Objective. To demonstrate the possibilities of using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry in the ‘Whole-Body’ mode in the algorithm for diagnosing and monitoring metabolically associated fatty liver disease in patients with metabolic syndrome.Material and methods. All patients were examined according to a single diagnostic algorithm, consisting of a physical examination with anthropometry, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry in the ‘Whole-Body’ mode and quantitative ultrasound steatometry. In addition to the main study group (n = 118), two control groups were recruited: the first with an increased body mass index, but without signs of metabolically associated fatty liver disease (n = 101), the second with a normal body mass index, without signs of liver damage (n = 84).Results. In a larger number of patients with confirmed metabolically associated fatty liver disease, according to clinical, laboratory and instrumental data, a predominance of visceral adipose tissue over subcutaneous adipose tissue was observed (compared to patients without confirmed metabolically associated fatty liver disease). At the same time, the percentage of fat in patients of the main study group and control group No. 1 is within the normal range of age intervals. Quantitative ultrasound steatometry data have a high correlation with data describing the components of the metabolic syndrome according to dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry in the ‘Whole-Body’ mode with a direct relationship.Conclusion. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry in the ‘Whole-Body’ mode can be used both for screening and for diagnosing the components of the metabolic syndrome due to high information content and minimal radiation exposure. Patients in whom visceral subcutaneous tissue predominates over subcutaneous adipose tissue are at greater risk of developing metabolically associated fatty liver disease. Quantitative ultrasound steatometry complements the picture of diffuse liver changes in patients with metabolic syndrome.